(Philadelphia, April 30, 2021)—The Philadelphia Orchestra has appointed Danielle Allen director of education and community, beginning May 1. Allen joined the Orchestra’s Global Initiatives and Government Relations office in 2017. In her new role, she will advance the goals of a broad educational platform and serve as an external ambassador for the Orchestra’s community initiatives. She will also work on advancing the HEAR initiative, focusing on Health and Wellness, music Education, Access to music, and Research-based measurements. Allen’s role will include the oversight of existing programs that foster collaboration within the vast music ecosystem of Philadelphia, the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, and beyond, and the creation of a new chapter in the Philadelphia Orchestra’s Education and Community initiatives in the post-COVID age.
“I am overjoyed to lead the education and community programs for The Philadelphia Orchestra. These programs, already beloved by so many, are vital in delivering much-needed music education to our community,” said Allen. “I look forward to collaborating with new and existing partners to extend the impact of these programs to students and audiences in Philadelphia and beyond.”
“Danielle is a passionate leader and ambassador for The Philadelphia Orchestra,” said Orchestra President and CEO Matías Tarnopolsky. “With her background in education, deep ties to our region, and experience collaborating with key partners locally, nationally, and internationally on behalf of the Orchestra, we know she will help to advance the Orchestra’s important connections with the extraordinary and diverse communities of Philadelphia, as well as with our global audiences and collaborators.”
In her previous position as the manager of global affairs with The Philadelphia Orchestra, Allen managed the organization’s international projects. She led the Orchestra’s relationships with community, corporate, civic, and government partners locally and abroad to champion the Orchestra’s mission of cultural exchange through music. Allen’s prior professional experience spans various industries, including nearly 15 years in the nonprofit sector. Prior to joining The Philadelphia Orchestra, she spent over a decade with the Center City District of Philadelphia, working in crime prevention and on beautifying public spaces. She also worked for the Philadelphia Eagles as assistant to the director of stadium and facility control, where she managed field access on game days for dignitaries, including government officials. Adding to her diverse professional background, she served as events coordinator for the Philadelphia School of Circus Arts.
Born and raised in Philadelphia, Allen graduated summa cum laude from the Philadelphia High School for Girls before attending Clark Atlanta University in Atlanta, Georgia. She received her B.S. in Education from Temple University with concentrations in Early Childhood, Elementary, and Special Education. In her personal service, she has planned neighborhood health events, school supply drives, and college fairs for her church and other faith-based organizations.
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